Research Assistant - Japan Chair

Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading non-profit organization in Washington, DC is seeking a Research Assistant for the Japan Chair. This role supports research and project management focused on U.S.-Japan relations. The ideal candidate will have a relevant bachelor's degree and strong organizational skills. This in-office position requires presence 3+ days per week, contributing to impactful policy solutions.

Qualifications

• Ability to conduct policy research across various issue areas.
• Familiarity with Japan-related policy issues and U.S. strategy in the Indo-Pacific.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on topics assigned by program staff.
• Manage research projects related to Japanese politics and U.S.-Japan security.
• Coordinate design and distribution of Japan Chair publications.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Japan Studies

Bachelor’s degree in International Relations

Bachelor’s degree in Political Science

Job description

Join to apply for the Research Assistant - Japan Chair role at Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)

Job Summary

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization established in 1962 to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decisionmakers concerned with global security and prosperity. It has grown to be one of the largest organizations of its kind, with a staff of around 200 employees, including over 120 analysts addressing international security issues worldwide.

CSIS is seeking a Research Assistant for the Japan Chair, which studies U.S.-Japan relations and aims to enhance mutual understanding. The role involves supporting research, project management, and administrative functions at CSIS headquarters in Washington, DC. The salary range is $55,000-$65,000, based on experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Conduct research on topics assigned by program staff.
2. Manage research projects related to Japanese politics, U.S.-Japan security and economic ties, and regional strategic coordination.
3. Coordinate design, layout, editing, and distribution of Japan Chair publications.
4. Assist in planning and executing events for public and private stakeholders.
5. Contribute to grant proposal development.
6. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Education, and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Japan Studies, International Relations, Political Science, or related field.
• Ability to conduct policy research across various issue areas.
• Familiarity with Japan-related policy issues and U.S. strategy in the Indo-Pacific.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in Japanese language preferred.

Work Conditions

This is an in-office role at our Washington, DC headquarters, requiring presence 3+ days per week. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities. The environment is moderate noise level.

Application Process

Applicants should submit a résumé, cover letter, college transcript, and a 2-3-page writing sample via CSIS careers page. Applications missing any required materials will be considered incomplete.